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Team Lean challenge to kick off Jan. 13

The Family Y will kick off its seventh annual Team Lean competition starting the week of Jan. 13.

“I call it a 12-week community-wide weigh down program,” said Janet Thornburg, community health director.

“It’s a team challenge where the Y offers tools to help the community adopt healthier lifestyles. We offer free weekly health presentations conducted by registered dieticians and community health professionals.”

Free community events are also held on Saturdays during the 12 weeks.

“It gets people out into the community and these are physical activities,” she said of the events.

Participants also get 12 free visits to the Family Y.

During the competition, which ends April 3, participants weigh in each Thursday.

Last year, more than 1,500 people participated in the competition. They lost a total of 12,524 pounds, or 3.95 percent of total body weight, in the competition.

“The team support has proven successful with the accountability that it offers. Even if they’re playing as an individual, they can go to all of these events and feel part of a community team,” said Thornburg.

The official kick off will be held Jan. 13 from 3 to 8 p.m. at each branch. Individuals or teams of 4 to 5 may sign up to participate.

Those unable to attend the kick-off can also register throughout that week at any branch.

The registration fee is $50 for members and $70 for nonmembers. Scholarships are available.

This year’s winners will be announced April 19 during the finale event. Winners will be based on the percentage of weight lost.

Those interested in participating can visit thefamilyy.org to view the Team Lean handbook and for more information about the competition.